Septum and Nostril Piercing: Which Is Right for You?

Body piercings have been a popular form of self-expression for centuries, and in recent years, septum and nostril piercings have become more mainstream than ever before. Whether you’re looking to add a little edge to your style or are simply curious about getting a piercing, septum and nostril piercings are two of the most common and versatile options out there. But before you head to the piercing studio, it’s important to understand the basics of both types of piercings and which one is suitable for you.

What is a Septum Piercing?

A septum piercing goes through the thin piece of tissue between your nostrils, known as the "columella." This piercing has been worn by various cultures throughout history and is often associated with tribal and spiritual practices. However, it’s now a popular choice among those who want a unique look that can be easily concealed or shown off, depending on the jewelry chosen.

There are the following reasons to get a septum piercing:

• Versatility: One of the biggest advantages of a septum piercing is its versatility. You can choose a wide range of jewelry styles, from small and discreet to bold and decorative. You can even flip a circular barbell up into your nostrils to hide the piercing when necessary!
• Healing: The septum piercing heals relatively quickly, usually within 6-8 weeks if properly cared for. It also tends to be less painful for many people because the piercing goes through a soft tissue area, not cartilage.
• Stylish and Trendy: Septum piercings have gained popularity among fashion-forward individuals, often spotted on celebrities, influencers, and people with creative, edgy styles.

What is a Nostril Piercing?

A nostril piercing, on the other hand, is done through the side of the nose, either on the left or right nostril (or both!). It is one of the most traditional and globally recognized facial piercings, seen in cultures around the world.

There are the following reasons to get a nostril piercing:

• Cultural Significance: In many cultures, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East, nostril piercings are more than just a fashion statement. They have deep cultural and religious significance, often symbolizing marriage, femininity, or spiritual beliefs.
• Classic and Elegant: Nostril piercings are incredibly versatile and can be as subtle or striking as you like, depending on the jewelry you choose. From tiny studs to sparkling rings, you can switch up your style easily.
• Widely Accepted: Since nostril piercings are more common, they are generally more accepted in workplaces and social settings, making them a good choice if you want a visible piercing without raising too many eyebrows.

Nostril and Septum Piercing Together

Getting both nostril and septum piercings together can cause some challenges, especially during the healing process. Since both piercings are located close to each other on the nose, they may interfere with each other while healing. This can lead to increased discomfort, swelling, and a higher risk of infection if proper aftercare isn’t followed.

Another issue with having both nostril and septum piercings together is the prolonged healing time. Each piercing on its own requires significant time to heal properly, and when done together, it might take longer because the body is healing two areas at once. Swelling from one piercing could affect the other, making the entire process more uncomfortable. It also limits the types of jewelry you can wear comfortably, as larger or more elaborate pieces might rub against each other, causing irritation.

It’s generally recommended to get one piercing done before the other to avoid these complications. Most people suggest starting with the nostril piercing first, as it is typically less painful and easier to heal. Once the nostril has healed, usually after a few months, you can then get the septum pierced. This staggered approach gives your body time to heal properly and reduces the risk of irritation or infection from having both piercings healing at the same time.

Septum vs. Nostril Piercing: Which is Right for You?

Now that you know the basics of each piercing, you might be wondering which one is better suited to your style and personality. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Pain Level: Septum piercings are generally more painful than nostril piercings. This is because the septum has more nerve endings and less cushioning compared to the fleshy area of the nostril.
• Visibility: If you need to hide your piercing for work, school, or other situations, a septum piercing is more easily concealable. Nostril piercings, on the other hand, are always visible unless you wear a very discreet stud.
• Healing Time: Septum piercings typically take around 6-8 weeks and Nostril Piercing takes 2-4 Months to heal. 
• Personal Style: If you’re drawn to a more edgy, rebellious look, a septum piercing might be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you want something classic and understated, a nostril piercing could be a better fit.

Choosing the Right Jewelry

Once your piercing has healed, you’ll have plenty of jewelry options to choose from! Here are a few popular choices for septum and nostril piercings:

• Septum Jewelry: Circular barbells, horseshoe rings, and clickers are popular choices for septum piercings. You can choose from simple metal rings or more decorative options with gemstones, designs, and colors.
• Nostril Jewelry: Nose studs, hoops, and L-shaped pins are common for nostril piercings. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or something flashy, there’s a wide range of styles available.

When choosing jewelry, make sure it’s made from high-quality materials like surgical steel, titanium, or sterling silver earrings to avoid allergic reactions and irritation.

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What to Expect During the Piercing Process

Getting a septum or nostril piercing might seem daunting if you’ve never done it before, but it’s a fairly simple and quick procedure. Here’s what to expect:

1. Choosing a Piercing Studio: This is the most important step! Make sure you go to a reputable, clean, and licensed piercing studio with experienced piercers. Don’t be afraid to ask about their hygiene practices, sterilization methods, and how many piercings they’ve done before.
2. Consultation: Your piercer will typically consult with you about the placement of the piercing and your jewelry options. Feel free to ask any questions and express any concerns you have.
3. The Piercing: For a septum piercing, the piercer will use a clamp to hold the tissue in place and then pass a hollow needle through. For a nostril piercing, they’ll insert the needle through your nostril and follow it with your chosen jewelry. The process only takes a few minutes.
4. Immediate Aftercare: After the piercing is done, your piercer will give you aftercare instructions. Be sure to follow these closely to avoid infections or complications.

Aftercare Tips for Septum and Nostril Piercings

Taking care of your new piercing is crucial for proper healing. Here are some aftercare tips to keep in mind:

• Keep It Clean: Clean your piercing twice a day with a saline solution (saltwater) or a piercing-specific aftercare solution. Avoid using alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, as these can irritate the piercing and slow down healing.
• Avoid Touching: As tempting as it may be to touch or twist your new piercing, try to avoid doing so. Your hands carry bacteria, which can lead to infections.
• Be Patient: Healing takes time, so avoid changing your jewelry or playing with your piercing too soon. You should wait at least 6-8 weeks before switching out your jewelry.
• Watch for Signs of Infection: If you notice excessive redness, swelling, pus, or pain that doesn’t go away, you may have an infection. Contact your piercer or a healthcare professional if this happens.

Conclusion

Piercings are a fantastic way to express yourself and make a statement about who you are. Whether you're leaning toward a septum or a nostril piercing, it's all about finding what feels right for you. If you’re considering getting one, do some research, choose a trusted piercer, and make sure you’re ready for the aftercare commitment.